Hope and Loneliness as Predictors of Quality of Life Among Rural Older Adults in Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study

Hope and loneliness are significant psychosocial factors that greatly influence the quality of life (QoL) among older adults. However, few studies have examined these constructs simultaneously in rural aging populations in Southeast Asia. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between hope, loneliness, and QoL among community-dwelling older adults in northeastern Thailand. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 250 participants aged 60 years and older, recruited through convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while hierarchical regression identified QoL predictors. The participants (mean age = 70.41 years; 52.8% female) reported a high level of hope (M = 33.35), a moderate level of loneliness (M = 8.81), and a good level of QoL (M = 99.13). Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that age, occupation, monthly income, income source, education, health insurance, comorbidities, hope, and loneliness were significant predictors of QoL. Together, these factors accounted for 55.1% of the variance in QoL. Both hope and loneliness have a significant impact on QoL in older adults. Interventions designed to reduce loneliness and foster hope may prove effective in enhancing the well-being of aging populations. These findings underscore the importance of integrating psychosocial and community-based approaches into geriatric care and public health planning.